Optimizing landing mechanics to modulate patellar tendon loading: An individualized moment arm analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Single-leg landings place significant stress on the patellar tendon.
• Peak patellar tendon force (PPTF) is a critical indicator of tendon mechanical load.
• Understanding factors influencing PPTF is crucial for injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the patellar tendon moment arm (PTMA) and PPTF during single-leg landings.
• To investigate biomechanical correlations and neuromuscular features related to PPTF.
• To provide a biomechanical basis for understanding patellar tendon loading.

Main Methods:

• Integration of 3D modeling with high-resolution in vivo kinematics.
• Quantification of PTMA and PPTF.
• Muscle network analysis.

Main Results:

• Minimal sex-based differences in PTMA were observed.
• PPTF positively correlated with knee flexion at initial contact and negatively with range of motion.
• Muscle network analysis revealed differences in clustering coefficients between frequency bands.

Conclusions:

• Reduced knee flexion at initial contact and increased range of motion attenuate patellar tendon mechanical demand.
• Individualized moment arm analysis offers insights into patellar tendon loading.
• Findings can inform strategies for reducing patellar tendon injury risk.